Southwark (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Southwark Liberal Democrats commit £300,000 to upgrade 30 playgrounds after three were listed among the ‘saddest’ in London, aiming to improve facilities.
The playgrounds on the Kirby Estate, the Rouel Road Estate, and the Abbeyfield Estate were selected after children last year characterized them as “lonely,” “nasty,” and in dire need of new equipment.
Almost thirty playgrounds in North Bermondsey, the Borough and Bankside, and Surrey Docks have already received £300,000 from the Community Interest Levy, thanks to the efforts of Southwark Liberal Democrat council members.
Every playground will receive a certain amount. Of the £300,000 investment, some will receive a few thousand, while others will receive much more.
The council members believe that the allocation would result in the reopening and improvement of the Kirby Estate playground, which is now closed due to health and safety issues.
Earlier this year young Kirby resident Ralph, 7, who had a swing snap beneath him while playing, said:
“[We need] a new park. They could change the park, rebuild the park.
It’s not been very nice on the park because the swings have been taken away two years ago.”
Bella, 9, said:
“It’s quite sad and there’s nothing really to do and you can’t play about.”
The Bermondsey estate is renowned for its community spirit, particularly during football tournaments when residents drape national flags from around the world from their balconies.
Council members from the borough and Bankside have also allocated money to improve playgrounds, such the one on Maiden Lane close to Borough Market.
Later this month, the final playground list will be verified.
Which Bermondsey playgrounds will receive the largest shares of the funding?
Due to health and safety issues, the Kirby Estate playground is currently out of service, but will be reopened and improved with a large part of funding for the playground.
A separate £100,000 is earmarked for a new Russia Dock Woodland Adventure Playground, an important site that was taken down by the last Labour council.
Of all the Bermondsey playgrounds, these two receive the largest individual shares of the investment, emphasizing their community significance and urgent need for refurbishment.
Other playgrounds located in North Bermondsey and in the surrounding areas can also expect investments, which while not as large, will still provide meaningful improvements to regenerate play spaces for children and families in the area.